20th Century Fox Film
When we say the cast of characters in X-Men: Days of Future Past is huge, we mean huge. Remember those 25 Empire magazine covers that featured the main characters, including new and returning mutants? There will be two Magnetos, two Professor Xs, plus Wolverine, Mystique, Kitty Pryde, Storm, Beast, Rogue, Quicksilver, Havoc, and Bishop, not to mention William Stryker and Bolivar Trask, all in one film. Since Days of Future Past is meant to converge the original X-Men trilogy and the rebooted franchise, it’s understandable. However, the big cast also offers its own challenges that we’re discussing here.
Pro: More mutants!
One of the coolest aspects of the X-Men films is seeing all different kinds of mutants. In the X-Men universe, the superpower possibilities are endless: walking through walls, controlling kinetic energy, etc. It’s always fun to venture away from well-known mutants like Wolverine and Magneto and toward entirely new characters with new powers.
Con: Not enough screen time for our favorites
With such a big cast — about 20 main and side characters — it would be impossible for the film to give equal time to everyone. So, while Wolverine, Professor X, and Magneto take up most of the screen time, Kitty Pryde and Storm may only appear for one or two scenes, which is a disappointment for fans of those mutants.
Pro: Fun for non-diehard fans
While comic book fans will recognize many of the new mutants, moviegoers that have only seen the films won’t be left in the dark because most of the cast members have appeared in previous movies. Plus, it will be cool for everyone to see a past and future version of Professor X and Magneto.
Con: Too complicated and confusing
With so many characters, some casual viewers may feel the need to study up prior to watching Days of Future Past. Thankfully, some mutants, like Quicksilver and Beast, have easily distinguishable features/powers. Sort of.
Pro: Bryan Singer knows what he’s doing
Singer directed the original trilogy as well as produced X-Men Origins: Wolverine and X-Men: First Class. With him directing Days of Future Past, the film is in the most capable hands around.
Con: A huge endeavor
Combining two franchises in order to create a new timeline? Has that ever been done before? Not that we’re aware of. It’s a complicated task to undertake and requires careful attention to continuity and character development. We don’t necessarily doubt Singer, though, because we’d doubt anyone in his situation.
Of course, this is all speculation. We’ll have to wait until X-Men: Days of Future Past premieres before passing any real judgment.
